I am a retired Federal purchasing agent, and searched worldwide for a quality set of ring opening pliers, and never found anything remotely resembling the quality of these ones. In the hardware business, they are more commonly known as "snap ring pliers", but cost almost as much, and can't handle anytjhing larger than 6 gauge.
So folks, do yourselves a favor, and buy THESE ones and be DONE! My only negative comment is that the head of the pliers, from the hinge up, should have a thick and durable plastic or polymer coating. The first thing I did with mine was dunk them in Plastidip tool handle coating (available at most hardwear and home improvement stores, and in several fun colors), a couple of times, with ample curing time in between coats. It protects your jewelry, and more importantly, provides a very sure GRIP on them (especially useful for smaller rings, particularly youjr nipple rings.
Finally, a real bonus: those pesky spring, or hog ring clamps under the hood of your car, lol...

They just showed up and I am very impressed.
Not that I mind going to my piercer to have my PA ring changed. These opened my 00ga 3/4" captive ball ring with little effort.
The pneumatic action of these openers is outstanding and I will be recommending them to other people I know who have large gauge rings.
Using my digital caliper I did some checking and this set of openers should open any large gauge ring that is 3/8" to 1 3/16" on the top dibit and 7/16" to 1 3/8" on the lowest dibit. That is a nice range. Mind you, the low measurements would be tight fits.

These pliers are strongly built - I use them to open a 00 gauge segment ring - but their maximum opening is only about 1", so they may not be large enough for really large pieces. Good quality though, and a fair price.

I REALLY LIKE THEM THEY WORK GREAT ON THE SMALLER GAUGE AND THE LARGER GAUGE AS LONG AS THEY ARE 5/8 INCHES AND LARGER DIAMETER BUT NOT ON THE LARGER GAUGES 1/2 INCH DIAMETER I CAN'T GET MY 2 GAUGE 1/2 INCH OPEN BUT I WAS SICK FOR AWILL MABEY THAT'S WHY. BUT OTHER THEN THAT VERY WELL MADE .

Excellent well designed tool. The pliers worked easily in my \"man\" hands. Someone with smaller hands may have a tougher time gripping the handles with one hand. I appreciate the ring notches in the noses. The tool exceeded my expectations.

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Testimonials

Dear Chain Gang,
I just wanted to let you know that I received my opal nose ring today (in less time than your original estimate, I might add), and it's just beautiful. I was really worried about the quality of the opal at 2 mm, but the colors are so vibrant--you've really done my birthstone justice! :-) I thought you'd also like to know that your workmanship will be showcased at my sister's wedding this summer, where I will stand with her as her matron of honor.
These days it's hard to find businesses that are committed to customer service, and I want to thank you for your professionalism, courtesy, and stunning craftsmanship. You've got a return customer in me.
--Rachel